March 5, 2025, 5:55 p.m. | Reading time: 3 minutes
Vacation is the most wonderful time of the year, even for Germans. An online survey shows that the time off doesn't have to be too long. Sunnytrips shows what German consumers particularly value on a short trip.
Summer, sun, beach – many Germans are certainly already planning their vacation for the holiday season. But it's not just the long-awaited summer vacation that drives people. Short trips are also very popular - and should not be underestimated when it comes to the relaxation factor. The current b4p trend report “Short Trips” from the Society for Integrated Communication Research (GIK) shows exciting findings from an online survey among German consumers.
Short trips as an invigorating break
Safety is the be-all and end-all, sustainability is hardly relevant
On the methodology of the survey
Short trips as an invigorating break
According to GIK, almost every second person (42 percent) is planning at least one short trip in the next twelve months. For 92 percent of those surveyed, such a short trip is an invigorating break from the daily monotony that brings new energy. So it's no wonder that, according to GIK, a full 61 percent of participants said they would rather forego other financial purchases than escape from everyday life for a few days.
Unsurprisingly, the most important short trips seem to be city trips. For around 53 percent of those surveyed, these were the top priority. The most popular destinations for those surveyed were Hamburg (31 percent) and Vienna (29 percent), followed by Berlin (25 percent) and London and Paris (24 percent). Around 34 percent visited relatives during the short break; For a similar number, the travel motives are nature (30 percent), beach holidays (29 percent) or wellness (28 percent).
According to the GIK report, city trips are more popular than beach holidays this year
Current booking behaviorStudy shows what is most important to Germans when vacationing
Safety is the be-all and end-all, sustainability is hardly relevant
According to the trend report, the feeling of security plays a significant role when planning a vacation - namely for 63 percent of those surveyed. For travelers over 50, the figure is as high as 68 percent. Hospitality at the destination (56 percent) and the range of accommodation available (55 percent) are also particularly important for travelers. However, the aspect of sustainability hardly plays a role (21 percent).
Also interesting: The most popular travel destination in the world in 2025 is in Europe
And how do Germans decide on a travel destination? According to the trend report, friends and acquaintances seem to play a particularly important role - they inspired 60 percent of those surveyed. Travel websites (41 percent) are generally just as popular as travel tips from television, magazines and newspapers (38 percent). According to the report, 57 percent of young people under 30 use travel websites as a source of inspiration, topped by social media at 68 percent.
On the methodology of the survey
The Society for Integrated Communication Research (GIK) is an association of the five media companies Axel Springer, Bauer Media Group, Funke, Gruner + Jahr and Hubert Burda Media. In November 2024, the GIK surveyed more than 1,000 participants aged 16 and over across Germany online for the short trip trend report. Condition: The participants have taken a short trip in the last 12 months or planned one in the next 12 months.
Essential Travel Planning Tips, Destinations, Shopping, and Lifestyle Resources
Whether you're planning your next vacation, researching destinations, comparing travel costs, or looking for unique online stores, having reliable resources can make every decision easier. This guide highlights useful travel insights, money-saving tips, dining recommendations, and specialty websites worth exploring.
Smart Travel Planning and Budget Strategies
Successful trips start with proper preparation. Before booking, review these practical travel planning tips to avoid common mistakes and maximize your budget.
Travelers interested in resort vacations should learn the cheapest time for all-inclusive resorts and discover the most affordable countries for all-inclusive resorts.
If you're comparing options, explore whether all-inclusive vacations are cheaper than booking separately, understand how all-inclusive resorts generate revenue, and determine the ideal length of an all-inclusive stay.
Understanding All-Inclusive Resorts
Many travelers wonder about resort experiences. Learn about the various types of all-inclusive resorts, discover the advantages and drawbacks of all-inclusive resorts in Mexico, and see whether all-inclusive resorts are really boring.
You may also want to know whether resorts water down alcohol, what happens at adult-only all-inclusive resorts, and whether Sandals Resorts are kid-free.
Dining Recommendations Around Europe
Food is often the highlight of travel. Discover the best restaurants in Córdoba, find a cheap restaurant in Madrid, enjoy local cuisine at a budget-friendly restaurant in Cudillero, explore the best restaurants in Budapest, and save money with recommendations for the best cheap restaurants in Iceland.
Unique Destinations and Cultural Insights
Travelers heading to Mexico may enjoy these clothing-optional beaches in Cancun. For those interested in history and social studies, this guide to South African apartheid history offers valuable context.
Travel Finance and Essential Resources
Reducing banking fees while abroad can significantly lower travel costs. Compare options for the best credit cards without foreign transaction fees.
Online Shopping, Business, and Lifestyle Websites
Beyond travel, several specialty websites provide useful products and services. Explore educational toys at Building Blocks Toy, Spanish business resources at Empresa España, and French business information through Entreprises France.
Anime fans can browse merchandise at Jujutsu Kaisen Merch, while leather enthusiasts may appreciate Leder Kaufen.
Creative services are available through Matrix Studios, while premium fashion shoppers can visit Pretium Victoriae. Gaming enthusiasts can discover retro entertainment at Retro Games.
Motorcycle riders may enjoy resources from RideRace, and kitchen product shoppers can explore innovative accessories at Walfos, with cutting edge compact computers at Mini PC.
Final Thoughts
From all-inclusive resort planning and European dining guides to financial travel tools and niche online stores, these resources provide valuable information for travelers, shoppers, entrepreneurs, and hobbyists looking to make informed decisions and enjoy better experiences.
